No shoey put-down for Zak Brown

Monza's podium saw the return of the long-awaited 'shoey' for Italian Grand Prix winner Daniel Ricciardo.

Revered by the Aussie, dreaded by others, Ricciardo's signature victory wink was naturally welcomed by McLaren boss Zak Brown, never one to shy away from a steady stream of festive bubbly.

As the chief architect of McLaren's revival, Brown's presence on the podium to collect the Constructors' trophy was well deserved.

Since taking the reins of the Woking-based outfit in 2018, Brown has worked tirelessly to restore the former luster of Formula 1's second most successful team in history behind Ferrari.

Sunday's win was a validation of the American's governance and management at the helm of McLaren Racing.

But it was also a proper moment of recognition for the talent and competence of Brown's accomplice and McLaren's chief orchestrator, team boss Andreas Seidl.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.